FAQ# 1072:

Question

Which barcode scanner interface should I buy?

Answer

Generally speaking, you should buy a USB barcode scanner. These scanners function more or less as USB keyboards: Your computer (most scanners are compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, as well as Linux) will recognize the device as a USB human interface device (the same as it recognizes a keyboard), and scan data will be transmitted through the keyboard buffer.

If that is all a bit complex, think of it this way: A USB barcode scanner will work in any situation where a keyboard would work. If you can enter a barcode with your keyboard, you can enter it with a USB barcode scanner.

PS/2 barcode scanners are essentially the same as USB scanners, except that they use PS/2 keyboard ports. Most new computers do not come equipped with PS/2 ports, but, as many computers in the point-of-sale (and point-of-service) world are not what anyone might call "new," you may desire a PS/2 scanner. One notable difference between PS/2 and USB scanners is that PS/2 scanners also offer an additional PS/2 keyboard port, so that, if you are using a PS/2 keyboard, you do not need to stop using it when you attach a PS/2 barcode scanner.

The other once-common scanner interface -- now very much less common than it was -- is serial, or RS-232. These scanners interface with computers in an entirely different manner. Unless your software specifically requires a serial scanner, it is quite recommended that you avoid the interface altogether.

Barcode ScannerWith the right barcode scanner, you can speed data collection and eliminate data entry errors in any industry. From hand-held to presentation, POSGuys has a variety to choose from. Let us help you find the best scanner for your business.